I own my own home. Can I pull my own permits or do I need a licensed contractor?

Under the Massachusetts State Building Code, 780 CMR, the owner of a one or two family dwelling is allowed to secure their own building permit, in lieu of a licensed general contractor. In essence, the homeowner becomes the general contractor and is responsible for all related work performed at the property, up to and including ensuring full compliance with all provisions covered under the Massachusetts State Building Code, 780 CMR. All contractors hired by the homeowner are considered sub-contractors and should have the proper insurance otherwise the homeowner may be liable for any injuries incurred on the property through their homeowner's insurance. The homeowner is not allowed to secure permits for electrical work and plumbing/gas work; these permits must be secured by the respective licensed contractor.

Important Note: Owners not using registered contractors or obtaining their own permits cannot receive payment from the Massachusetts guaranty fund as outlined in the Home Improvement Contractor registration program.

Show All Answers

1. I would like to have some work done on my home. Do I need a building permit?
2. What if I’m just re-shingling my roof, installing new replacement windows and/or re-siding my home; do I still need a building permit?
3. Why do I even need a permit?
4. What information do I need to submit to the building inspector to allow me to do work on my home?
5. You said I needed to submit a certified plot plan with my permit application. What is that, why do I need this and where do I get one?
6. At the closing, the bank gave me a mortgage inspection plot plan. Can I use that?
7. How much does a permit cost?
8. How long does it take to issue a permit?
9. What happens if I don’t pull a building permit?
10. I’d like to install a swimming pool on my property. What do I need to do?
11. I’d like to install a shed/detached garage on my property. What do I need to do?
12. I need to get an inspection for the work that was performed on my property. How do I schedule an inspection?
13. I own my own home. Can I pull my own permits or do I need a licensed contractor?
14. Do I need a permit to have a yard sale on my property?
15. Can I put up signs advertising my yard sale?
16. My parents are starting to need constant care. Can I add an in-law or accessory apartment to my single-family home?
17. I’m thinking about building an addition onto my house or maybe a detached accessory garage. How close can I go to my property lines?
18. I have a boat that I need to store for the winter. Can I store it on my property?
19. I have a recreational trailer that I need to store for the winter. Can I store it on my property?
20. Can I store my unregistered vehicle on my property?
21. I’m thinking about starting my own business and working out of my home. Is this allowed?
22. The company I work for let’s me take the company vehicle home with me. Am I allowed to park this commercial vehicle in the driveway of my single-family home?